October 7 - Membership Discussion: Meeting Times

Posted by Walter Hatch

Guest: Shirley Powell (Powell)

Members We Missed: Blair, Hynek, Murphy, Thrall, Whitney, Zinchuk

Ellie led a discussion of possible changes to our current meeting time to increase attendance. She has had several people tell her that they are unable to attend breakfast meetings, and she is also aware that many other Rotary clubs are trying different meeting times and formats to better match people's needs. Regarding luncheon meetings, it was noted that some current members who can attend breakfasts could not attend luncheons. She asked members' opinion of alternating between breakfast and luncheon meetings -- for example, breakfast 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, luncheon 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, and a social when there's a 5th Tuesday. The final consensus seemed to be that the alternating times would be too confusing, especially for potential visitors. A factor that likely increases attendance is a "notable" speaker, with advance notice of this to club members. It was agreed that a structured survey was needed to get better input on what meeting times and formats would attract the best participation. With regard to socials that replace regular meetings, the setting should promote the feel of a cohesive Rotary activity, including some elements of a regular Rotary meeting. Such a social is planned for Jan. 6.